Highland radio ‘alive and well’ despite MFR shock, says Inverness Hospital Radio
Highland radio is "very much alive and well" despite MFR's controversial decision to axe its last locally produced show, a local station believes.
MFR, which is owned by international media giant Bauer, sparked outrage yesterday when it confirmed that popular morning show Jodie at Breakfast - which is broadcast from the station's base at Scorguie every weekday from 6am to 10am - will be axed at the end of the year.
It means that all shows airing on MFR from the start of 2025 will be made and broadcast from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen - with MFR also sharing the exact same programmes 24/7 as on Aberdeen’s Northsound 1, Dundee’s Tay FM and Edinburgh’s Forth 1.
But despite MFR seemingly abandoning its Highland roots and becoming Moray Firth Radio in name only, a post on social media last night has sought to remind listeners that there are still local options available for those who feel left behind by the shock news.
Inverness Hospital Radio, which is one of several community stations dotted around the north Highlands, said that the loss of local programming on MFR was "disappointing" but moved to "reassure everyone that local radio is very much alive and well".
And it has urged listeners missing that distinctive local voice on the airwaves to instead give these community stations a go.
"We've noticed concerns circulating online about the lack of local radio options following the recent news from MFR," said a spokesperson for Inverness Hospital Radio.
"While it's disappointing to see the Highlands lose an important local voice, we want to reassure everyone that local radio is very much alive and well.
"Since 2021, Inverness Hospital Radio has been broadcasting online and is accessible to everyone - not just NHS staff or patients in the wards.
"Whether you're at home, work, or on the go, we're here for you anytime you need that familiar local sound.
"We're incredibly proud of our award-winning team of presenters, offering a range of shows to suit all musical tastes - from country, rock 'n' roll, and fresh new music to laid-back tunes. We even brought the atmosphere of Belladrum straight to your speakers for two consecutive years, making sure no one missed out on the festival action.
"We're a small, non-profit station that relies on the support of our community, and we hope more locals will tune in and join us on the journey.
"For more information on how to get involved, listen live, or show your support, please visit us at hhr.scot.
“Let’s keep local radio thriving in the Highlands together.”
